The Largo/Mid-Pinellas Chamber of Commerce and SCORE (Service Corps of Retired Executives) will have a free session called 10 Steps to Start a Successful Small Business from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday in the Jenkins Wing at the Largo Public Library, 120 Central Park Drive.

The program will identify what it takes to be an entrepreneur, how to develop a business plan and how to manage a business. Handouts will be provided.

Advance registration is required. Contact Charlie Cronk at the chamber at 584-2321 or e-mail [email protected]

Regular monthly programs on hiatus

The chamber's regular monthly programs will not take place in July. These include Coffee An'Networking, the Chamber Business Luncheon and Business After Hours.

For a complete list of chamber events, dates and locations, visit the organization's Web site at www.largochamber.org and click on the "events" link.

Partnership offersfree help every day

The Business Assistance Program, a partnership between the city, chamber of commerce and Pinellas County Economic Development, provides free help to dozens of businesses each day.

Services range from guidance in developing business plans, obtaining permits and licenses to financing options, training programs and employment searches. Largo's Business Assistance Specialist Charlie Cronk is trained to provide technical assistance to those looking to start a business as well as existing businesses considering expansions or moves.

To schedule an appointment with Cronk, call the chamber at 584-2321 or e-mail [email protected]

Nominations for two awards now accepted

The Largo/Mid-Pinellas Chamber of Commerce is accepting nominations for its Citizen of the Year and Mac Norcross Small-Business Person of the Year awards.

These presentations will take place at the chamber's 56th annual banquet on Sept. 15 at the Sheraton Sand Key Resort, 1160 Gulf Blvd., Clearwater.

Citizen of the Year nominees must be living individuals who have focused attention on the Largo/Mid-Pinellas region that has brought acclaim or public notice; have outstanding achievement in community service; have a place of business in the Largo/Mid-Pinellas region; and have performed volunteer services to the community. Positions in national, state and local civic and nonprofit organizations will be considered.

Mac Norcross Small-Business Person of the Year nominees must own a locally operated independent or franchised business with 50 or fewer full-time employees and be an active member of the chamber. A commitment to the community, as demonstrated by contributions of personal time or resources, and a proven commitment to local small business must be demonstrated.

Nomination deadline is Aug. 20. For nomination forms or for more information about award criteria, call the chamber at (727) 584-2321 or e-mail [email protected]

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